Achilles

WHAT IS ACHILLES TENDONITIS/BURSITIS?

Achilles tendinitis is an inflammation of the tendon and the surrounding loose connective tissue through which the calf muscles act. Achilles tendonitis is one of the most common sports injuries today among athletes.

Trauma or repetitive stress, constant running, are often causes of Achilles tendonitis. Sudden or excessive stretching of the tendon due to muscular activity may also initiate this condition. Other major factors include overuse, repetitive contractions and/or continual ground reaction shock forces. The calf muscles produce ankle movement acting through the Achilles tendon. Any activity which requires this movement of the feet (jogging, soccer, hill running, walking on sand, etc.) can be causative to this condition.

At heel strike there is tremendous shock going into the Achilles tendon, whereas from heal lift to toe off, the Achilles is dramatically contracting. Each of these steps may contribute to this disorder.

A patient will describe pain in and around the area of the tendon. Tenderness may be present behind the tendon in cases of bursitis. Passive motion often intensifies the pain. Grating during motion at the tendon site may accompany the pain.

Upon examination, the tendon may be swollen or distended (enlarged comparing right to left). A crackling sound may be present with motion. If movement is absent, a ruptured tendon may have occurred, this would require surgery with about one year of rehabilitation.